As a Midwestern cyclist, when the temperatures start to dip and the snow is flying, I reach for my 45NRth gear. This Minnesota-based company understands the challenges of winter weather and designs its gear to keep you comfortable and warm, from head to toe, in the harshest conditions.
I’ve been wearing 45NRTH for a decade since I started fat biking. Their gear allows me to extend my cycling season. I started with a pair of Wolvhammer boots, expanding my winter cycling wardrobe to include Sturmfist 3 gloves, Naughtvind jacket and pants, and Draugenklaw drop-bar pogies.
The company sent me a pair of their new Öland boots to test in October. At first glance, these lace-up boots look more like hiking boots and are less bulky or Frankenstein-ish than the typical winter cycling boot. Rated for temperatures between 20 to 45 degrees F, the Öland boot aligns perfectly with my winter riding threshold. If it’s sunny and 20 degrees, count me in for a fat or MTB ride in the woods.
From the Outside
The Öland boot upper is constructed from ECCO’s full-grain waterproof leather. Made with Bioscavenge and DriTan technology to save and recycle water during manufacturing, the leather is Working Group-certified. Less bulk allows for a narrower boot, making it easier to walk in, won’t rub against the bike’s crank, and reduces overall weight.
The Öland features traditional laces instead of a BOA system. This design has its pros and cons. The pros are the ability to better control how tight or loose it fits from the toes to the ankle. Also, there’s no dial to get clogged with snow and freeze up. The cons are the need to tuck in the laces to avoid them getting caught in the chain. Plus, it’s virtually impossible to tie laces while wearing winter gloves. Overall, I liked the lace-up option.
The ankle is cut slightly lower in the back for increased comfort while pedaling or walking, and a reflective loop and strap help when pulling on the boot.
On the Inside
The insole supplied with the Öland is not insulated. I considered swapping it out for one of my 45NRTH insulated insoles. However, the 100 g of Primaloft® insulation kept my feet plenty warm.
Down on the Bottom
The outsole of the Öland boot is rubber with anti-slip Microglass inserts. The tread provides plenty of traction on snow or mud. The sole extends up around the front of the boot to provide extra coverage and protection in the toe area.
The boots are compatible with flat pedals or two-bolt cleats (cleat plate included). In the winter, I ride flat pedals, and the pins grip the rubber sole securely, keeping my feet solid on the pedals.
Sizing and Fit
Öland boots are unisex and come in sizes 36 to 50 EU. Their fit is consistent with other models of 45NRTH boots I own. The laces help to adjust the fit, with looser lacing to accommodate a thicker pair of alpaca socks or tighter lacing for a thinner pair of 45NRTH merino wool socks.
Bottom Line
If you’re gearing up for winter rides, 45NRTH’s Öland boots are an excellent choice to keep your feet warm, dry, and comfortable. Available in a classic tan color and sizes ranging from 36 to 50, these boots offer a sleek, less bulky design without compromising on warmth, even in temperatures as low as the 20s. Don’t let the cold hold you back — lace up a pair of Ölands and hit the trails!
Price: $260
Sizes: 36 – 50 EU
Color: Tan
Upper Material: ECCO’s full-grain waterproof leather
Insulation Material: 100 g of Primaloft® insulation
Outsole: Rubber with anti-slip Microglass inserts
Temperature Rating: 20 to 45 degrees F (-7 to 7 degrees C)
Weight: 723 g (size 46)
Pedal/Cleat Compatibility: Two-bolt or flat pedals
Closure: Laces
Sunflowers and Pedals 